Unveiling the Artist's Journey: Part 2
From Dream to Full-Time Creator & How I Sold My First Two Paintings
Today I want to share a bit more about my creative journey with you: my story and why I love to share all I learn, without holding anything back. This is Part 2 of the two-part series.
Being the new year, I thought I’d tell you how I got the courage to put my paintings out into the world, and sold my first originals. I hope it helps you feel motivated and inspired as you follow your dreams.
If you haven’t already, I encourage you to go back and read Part 1 as well: Unveiling The Artist’s Journey - A Creative Entrepreneur's Tale - From Fear to Freedom & Art As Healing…
It took years before I had the confidence to really put myself out there with my art.
When I started painting again in 2009, I had no idea it would lead to being a professional artist for more than fifteen years, selling my art around the world, creating The School Of Happy Painting, publishing coloring books, picture books, prints, and so much more. I had tried out so many different jobs, and nothing felt right.
After I lost my job, I opened an Etsy shop because I had the dream of selling my art. However, I didn’t feel brave enough to share my paintings with the world. For months, I listed feather hair clips and beaded earrings that I had made. I sold a few items online, and that gave me the courage to attend local events to talk about and sell my work.
It was a big deal back then for me to even talk about what I made since I have always been an introvert. Yet, every little step made me step out of my shyness (and get out of my own way).
When a local jeweler friend needed someone to drop off a ring for a charity auction, I delivered it for her. I wore some of the beaded earrings I had made and not only sold the pair I wore right off my ears but also received commissioned orders for many other pieces.
Still, for six months, I was way too freaked out to show anyone my paintings.
I didn’t think anyone would want to see my art, let alone buy it.
But when friends stopped by, they said they liked my work. I finally got up the courage to ask at our local library and exhibited my art the next month. I invited family, friends, and friends of friends to a little opening.
That’s how I sold my first two originals to people I didn’t know. The library also purchased a piece for their permanent collection. A few people asked for prints and cards, so I started selling those too.
I began selling my artwork, prints, and cards on Etsy. I started a Facebook page, a Twitter account, and a blog. I felt like there was no way anyone I didn’t know would ever purchase my paintings. I began reaching out to other artists and makers, and in 2011 I submitted my artwork to a magazine and launched my first online class, How To Paint An Owl.
Now I’ve built my creative career around following my heart and focusing on what I enjoy doing most, which has led to thousands of collectors, customers, and students around the world, press in publications like Glamour Magazine, Somerset Studio, and Oprah.com, being published in multiple books, having five books of my own on Amazon, launching eighteen online classes and The School Of Happy Painting Membership, opportunities to teach in-person and sales of originals, prints, cards, calendars, books and more in galleries and shops around the world.
Painting has brought so much joy into my life - and in the process, has inspired and encouraged others to do the same.
Along the way, I've connected with so many incredible people (like you).
Today I'm so very grateful, and I hope to continue to support and inspire you on your journey.
My hope is that in sharing my creative process and journey, you feel more connected and calm as you create, so you can learn to let go and love what you paint.
Whether you're just getting started, dream of selling your art, or just want more inspiration, positivity, healing, and beauty in your everyday life... I hope that in sharing my stories, art, and process, you feel a little less alone and closer to that part of your heart that keeps us all connected.
Next week I’ll tell you more about my creative process and some guidelines I use to jumpstart my practice, so be sure to subscribe and watch for that in your inbox if you’d like to know more.
There’s also a Free Painting Class here.
Love, Juliette
PS In case you missed it, I extended the special pricing for The School of Happy Painting Membership until January 15th. Happy painting!